Printed circuit board security using embedded photodetector circuit

Abstract

Systems and methods to obstruct analysis of a microchip may include an electrical component of a microchip and a photodetector positioned within the microchip. The photodetector may be configured to sense electromagnetic radiation. Circuitry in electrical communication with the photodetector may be configured to initiate an action to obstruct analysis of the electrical component in response to a change in a level of the electromagnetic radiation.

1 - 12 . (canceled) 
     
     
         13 . A method of manufacturing a microchip, the method comprising:
 positioning a photodetector within a microchip, wherein the photodetector is configured to sense electromagnetic radiation; and   positioning circuitry within the microchip, wherein the circuitry is in electrical communication with the photodetector and is configured to initiate an action to obstruct analysis of an electrical component in response to a change in a level of the electromagnetic radiation.   
     
     
         14 . The method of  claim 13 , further comprising positioning a source of the electromagnetic radiation within the microchip. 
     
     
         15 . The method of  claim 14 , further comprising positioning a light containment layer positioned between the photodetector and the source of the electromagnetic radiation. 
     
     
         16 . The method of  claim 14 , further comprising positioning the photodetector between first and second light containment layers. 
     
     
         17 . The method of  claim 14 , further comprising positioning an optically transparent laminate proximate the source of the electromagnetic radiation. 
     
     
         18 . The method of  claim 13 , further comprising positioning the photodetector to receive electromagnetic radiation comprising ambient light emanating from outside of the microchip. 
     
     
         19 . The method of  claim 13 , further comprising positioning a layer of light waveguide material configured to guide the electromagnetic radiation to the photodetector. 
     
     
         20 . A computer readable storage medium comprising instructions that when executed by a processor cause the processor to receive a signal from a photodetector embedded within a microchip, wherein the photodetector is configured to sense electromagnetic radiation, and in response to the signal, to initiate an action to obstruct analysis of an electrical component in response to a change in a level of the electromagnetic radiation.